Best Maths Reference Books for Class 11 CBSE – Complete Guide

Class 11 Maths is a huge step up from Class 10. It introduces students to more abstract thinking, complex problem-solving, and deeper concepts across topics like sets, trigonometry, functions, calculus, and coordinate geometry. While NCERT is the core, the right reference books help reinforce understanding, improve accuracy, and prepare students for both board and competitive exams.

In this blog, we share the best reference books for Class 11 Maths CBSE, explain how to use them, and provide tips to study smarter and more effectively.

Why Use Reference Books for Class 11 Maths?

NCERT is essential, but for mastering Maths in Class 11, you need extra practice and better clarity. Reference books offer:

• Step-by-step problem-solving methods
• Variety of solved and unsolved questions
• MCQs, HOTS, and competitive-level problems
• Explanatory notes and formula summaries

Need structured support? Explore our Class 11 Online Maths Tuition program at Edudrona for live classes and personal guidance.

Best Maths Reference Books for Class 11 CBSE

1. RD Sharma – Mathematics for Class 11

A go-to book for most students. RD Sharma provides exhaustive practice and clear theoretical explanations.

• Concept clarity through solved examples
• Covers each NCERT topic in-depth
• Ideal for school exams and self-study

2. NCERT Exemplar for Class 11 Maths

Designed by CBSE, the Exemplar book includes application-based and HOTS questions, often found in school exams.

• Great for mastering concepts
• Includes objective questions
• Helpful for competitive exam foundation

3. RS Aggarwal – Senior Secondary School Mathematics

This book focuses more on exam-oriented questions and is good for revision and standard practice.

• Useful for CBSE exam practice
• Precise explanations and formulas
• Covers basics well

4. Arihant’s Practice Book for Class 11 Maths

For students aiming at JEE, this book helps increase speed and accuracy in problem-solving.

• Topic-wise questions with difficulty levels
• Includes previous year exam questions
• Suited for both CBSE and JEE prep

5. Together With Mathematics / Xam Idea

Board exam-oriented books offering sample papers, chapter summaries, and model questions.

• Ideal for final revision
• Includes solved papers and question bank
• Good for time-bound practice

Book Comparison Table

Study Tips – How to Use These Books

1. Always solve NCERT first – Questions often appear directly from it.
2. Use RD Sharma or RS Aggarwal to reinforce each chapter.
3. Solve Exemplar after you’ve done NCERT.
4. Use Arihant or other JEE-focused books if you're preparing for competitive exams.
5. Practice regularly, not just before exams.
6. Make formula sheets and revise them weekly.

Learn With Edudrona – Online Class 11 Maths Tuition

If you want structured help, try our Class 11 Maths Tuition at Edudrona. You get:

• Concept-wise live lessons
• Topic-based doubt-solving
• Weekly assessments and feedback
• Personal attention from expert tutors

Book your free demo class today.

FAQs – Class 11 Maths Reference Books

1. Is RD Sharma enough for Class 11 Maths?

Yes, RD Sharma covers theory and offers a wide range of problems. Pair it with NCERT for best results.

2. Is NCERT Exemplar necessary?

Highly recommended. It includes HOTS and MCQs that are useful for board and competitive prep.

3. What’s the best book for JEE foundation in Class 11?

Arihant’s topic-wise books are excellent for JEE fundamentals.

4. Can I skip RS Aggarwal if I’m doing RD Sharma?

Yes, if you're confident with RD Sharma, you can skip RS Aggarwal.

5. Which book should I use for last-minute revision?

Together With Maths or Xam Idea are perfect for final revision.

Final Thoughts

Maths in Class 11 requires daily practice and clarity of concepts. Choose the right books based on your goals — board marks, competitive exams, or both. Stick with NCERT as your base, then use reference books to go deeper.

Need help? Join our Class 11 Maths Tuition or book a free demo class now and take the guesswork out of Maths learning!